San Angelo Resident Chosen to Meet the Pope at September 11 Memorial in New York

Rosendo "Rosey" Velez, of San Angelo, was a first responder called to Ground Zero on September 11th, 2001. Now he has a chance to reunite with other 9/11 first responders and meet the Pope.

Pope Francis will be making an historic visit to Ground Zero, in New York, and Velez was chosen to be among other first responders and families to meet the pontiff.

Like many other 9/11 first responders, Velez has injuries that is hindering his ability to travel. You see, he's got certain medical needs that he must travel with and that has added a hefty price tag to this trip.

For Velez to make this trip, he needs to raise over $6,000 so he can drive from San Angelo to New York City. His injuries prevent him from flying.

A GoFundMe page has been set up for the community to show their support. Whether you make a donation or share the page, please help Rosey make it back to Ground Zero.

The downside to all of this is the date the Pope will be visiting the September 11 Memorial and Museum is September 25th, so we need to act fast. Please help if you can.

When I received an email explaining a lottery for the Pope's visit to the trade center was being done. With so many first responders and 9/11 families. I never thought i would ACTUALLY get picked. In my wildest dreams, I never thought this would happen. So, I am 10000% not ready for it financially and physically but very much emotionally.

I am disabled. I can't fly due to my injury. I can only be in a car or sitting position for 6hr or less.

Due to the above. It takes me twice as long to drive from Texas to NYC.

Being able to take this trip serves 2 purposes.

ONE- seeing history being made with the Pope's visit.

SECOND - being able to see those i worked with back home in NY.

9/11 responders pass away from exposure every week.

I would like to see those still alive. Only God knows if this is my last opportunity.